One of the most potentially frustrating plumbing issues you might face in your home is in regards to a toilet that won’t stop running. Not only is it annoying to keep listening to, but it can also cost you significantly in excess water that you aren’t using–something that will quickly reflect on your monthly water bill.
Running toilets also take away the ability to flush. If you have this problem, then it’s time to give our team a call for toilet repairs, or potentially even replacement if the problem is bad enough. In the meantime, read on to learn what could be causing a consistently running toilet.
The Refill Tube Isn’t Functioning Correctly
The refill tube of your toilet is the part that replenishes the water within the tank. The top of this tub should always be above water level. However, if it isn’t, then you might start to hear intermittent running.
Float Ball Problems
The float ball is a small ball that sinks down with the water level as the tank empties with each flush. An inlet valve is opened, and as the tank is filling back up, the float ball rises and closes the valve to stop the filling process.
If, however, this float ball isn’t aligned correctly or if it is malfunctioning, then it may not allow the valve to completely close, and the water will continue to run.
The Chain on the Flush Valve Is the Wrong Length
This chain is responsible for pulling open the flush valve and allowing fresh water into the tank as used water gets flushed out. If this chain is either too short or too long, then it might interfere with the ability of the flush valve to close properly.
Flapper Issues
“Flapper” is another name given to the flush valve, and this component has to seal completely after each flush in order for water not to leak out. This component can age to the point that it begins to malfunction, or it may develop mineral deposits and/or wear down. All of these issues can prevent the flapper from properly sealing and could require replacement.
Worn Gasket
The toilet’s gasket is the seal between the tank and the bowl of your toilet. If it gets too worn out, then it allows water to run into your bowl from the tank, and you’ll hear the toilet running.
“When Should I Repair and When Should I Replace?”
If your toilet is over a couple of decades old, is experiencing leaks, and/or is experiencing more than one of the above mentioned problems, it’s probably time to consider replacement. The good news is, there are options that will lower your monthly water bills, such as low flow toilets.
Just be sure to only work with a trained and experienced plumber, so you can be sure that you’ll set up with a toilet or set of toilets that is properly sized for your specific bathroom(s).
For professional toilet services in St. Charles, MO, contact Performance Plumbing!